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Urban Storm Water Education
What Can You Do?
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| "The average homeowner uses 10
times more chemical fertilizers and pesticides per acre than farmers." |
Apply
Fertilizer Wisely
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Apply at the right time and in the right amounts.
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Too much nitrogen (N) can cause excessive growth
and increase maintenance.
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Fertilizer with slow release nitrogen is better
for the environment.
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Get a soil test to see what your soil needs—free
through the County Extension Office.
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If more fertilizer
is applied than the grass can utilize, it can wash into nearby
streams and lakes.
Apply
Pesticides Wisely
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Do your homework before using pesticides.
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Identify the pest, disease, or cause of the
problem.
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Learn when and where pesticides are needed.
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Apply pesticides only where pests occur.
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Select chemicals that are the least toxic or that
break down quickly.
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Always READ the label before mixing and applying
pesticides.
Do Your
Landscape Practices Help Prevent Soil Erosion?
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Soil washed away by rain can pollute streams and
lakes.
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Remember the storm drain system is a direct path
to nearby streams and lakes.
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Protect soil by planting groundcover vegetation
or using by mulch.
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Gardens and construction sites with areas of bare
soil, especially on sloped land are prone to erosion.
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Use the mulch setting on your mover and start
grass-cycling. Just leave the grass on the lawn. It provided
needed nutrients to the soil and grass.
Be
wise when washing your automobile
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Pull you vehicle
onto the grass before you start washing. This will help water the
yard as well as keep the soapy water from running straight into the
storm drain.
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Use a commercial
car wash. Waste water from these businesses does not enter the
storm drains and are sent to a water treatment facility.
Use and
dispose of household chemicals safely
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Never pour
chemicals such as paint or oil onto the yard or directly into storm
drains, or the next rain will take the chemicals directly to your
local stream.
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See if there is a
household chemical collection center near you and drop off chemicals there if possible.
These centers provide safe, environmental friendly disposal and are
usually free.
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Look for
alternative cleaning products that are less hazardous to the
environment.
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